Spill Response Basics
The maximum spill size your team can generally handle before management/professional assistance is required.
55 gallons (208 L)
I am highly flammable and have a flash point around 12°C.
Isopropyl Alcohol
Which SDS section contains First Aid Measures?
Section 4
You notice a small spill beside a tote. No one knows what the liquid is. What is your first action?
Evaluate from a safe distance, notify others, and identify the product before attempting cleanup.
You should do this immediately after discovering a spill.
Evaluate the spill and notify supervisor/management
I am a chelating agent that may be corrosive to metals.
Versenex 80
Which SDS section contains Spill Response information?
Section 6
You discover a spill moving toward a floor drain. What should you do first?
Protect the drain and contain the spill at the leading edge.
True or False: You should smell an unknown substance to help identify it.
False
I am a foaming agent and my spills create extreme slip hazards.
Hyonic 25-AS
Which SDS section contains Environmental Information?
Section 12
You arrive at a spill and immediately smell strong alcohol vapours. Which product might this be and what additional hazard must you consider?
Isopropyl Alcohol; ignition/fire risk.
The first thing you should do before attempting to stop a leak.
Assess the hazard and ensure it is safe
I am a biocide that is very toxic to aquatic life.
Sodium Omadine
Which SDS section contains Physical and Chemical Properties?
Section 9
You arrive at the spill and it is approximately 250 L. Do you proceed with a standard non-emergency cleanup?
It exceeds the 208 L (55 gallon) threshold and management/GPS must be involved.
A spill is moving toward a drain. What is your priority?
Contain the spill and protect the drain
I am a bactericide/fungicide that may cause allergic skin reactions.
Mergal 165
Which SDS section would tell you whether a product is flammable?
Section 9 or Section 2
A leaking drum is actively releasing product and stopping the leak would require standing in the spill. What should you do?
Do not attempt to isolate the source if it is unsafe. Isolate the area and escalate.